StandUP Polk, the Coalition for a Drug-Free Polk, and local law enforcement agencies were proud to participate in the DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back event on Saturday, October 29, 2011, and host our community’s Purge Your Pills Rx Drop Off at 5 locations throughout Polk County for citizens to turn in unused, expired, or unwanted Human and Pet Medications for safe and proper disposal.
An estimated 737.68 pounds of recovered pharmaceuticals were collected and safely disposed of via incineration. Five drop-off sites included Auburndale Police Department, Haines City Police Department, Lake Alfred Police Department, Lakeland Police Department, and Winter Haven Police Department.
National Prescription Drug Take Back Day addresses a vital public safety and public health issue. More than seven million Americans currently abuse prescription drugs, according to the 2009 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Each day, approximately, 2,500 teens use prescription drugs to get high for the first time according to the Partnership for a Drug Free America. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including the home medicine cabinet. Previous prescription medication collections held in Polk County, FL have resulted in nearly 1,700 pounds of recovered pharmaceuticals.
StandUP Polk, the Coalition for a Drug-Free Polk, is a group of concerned citizens, law enforcement, community and business leaders working together to take a stand against drugs and bring about positive change for Polk County. For more information, please contact Lisa Jones, StandUP Polk coalition coordinator, at (863) 802-0777.
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